History of Leduc, Alberta, Canada

By the end of 1947, some 30 wells in the field were producing 3500 barrels of oil a day.

Leduc, Alta., Nov. 13 - (CP) - The fire-blackened ruins of the pioneer Leduc hotel - death trap of 10 persons in an explosion which destroyed the building Saturday - symbolize the blackest day in the history of the oil-boom town of 2,000 population.

It might have been a red-letter day in the town's history had it not been for the explosion - the worst hotel disaster in Alberta's history. Leduc 21 miles south of Edmonton was to have been serviced with natural gas Saturday.

The two-story brick and frame hotel was ripped asunder by a blast heard 17 miles away shortly before noon Saturday, just as Leduc residents returned from Remembrance Day ceremonies. The hotel beverage room was to have opened in five minutes, and within 15 minutes it would have been filled. Had the explosion occurred then, residents fear the death toll might have been closer to 100.

The explosion was believed caused by gas seeping into the hotel basement from an undetermined source. Estimates of damage ranged ...

Leduc, Alta, incorporated as a town in 1906 and as a city in 1983, population 24 279 (2011c), 16 967 (2006c). The City of Leduc is located 30 km south of EDMONTON. Originally a telegraph terminus and stop on the Calgary and Edmonton Railway (1891), the community grew as an agricultural centre. It was named for Revered Hippolyte Leduc, OMI, a pioneer priest in the area.

On 13 Feb 1947, the Leduc No 1 well, several kilometres to the northwest near what became the town of DEVON, successfully tapped the huge Leduc oil field. By the end of 1947, some 30 wells in the field were producing 3500 barrels of oil a day. Today, most of the field is depleted, though Leduc is still a storage and pumping station. An oil interpretive centre has been established at the Leduc No 1 Oil Well site.

Leduc is a farm distribution centre with some light industry connected with oil production, although not as much as formerly. The city is a dormitory community for many people who commute to Edmonton, who...

Telford Lake: Take a leisurely stroll around Telford Lake and enjoy the scenic beauty. There are walking trails and parks surrounding the lake, making it a great place for a peaceful afternoon.

William F. Lede Park: This park is a fantastic spot for families. With playgrounds, open spaces, and picnic areas, it's an ideal place to spend a sunny day with friends or kids.

Castrol Raceway: If you're a fan of motorsports, Castrol Raceway is the place to be. Check their schedule for drag racing, oval racing, and other events. It's a thrilling experience for both enthusiasts and newcomers to the racing scene.

Leduc Golf Club: Tee off at the Leduc Golf Club if you enjoy hitting the links. It's a well-maintained course with beautiful scenery, providing a great golfing experience for players of all skill levels.

Leduc Recreation Centre: This facility has something for everyone. Whether you're into swimming, fitness, or attending events, the Leduc Recreation Centre is a hub of...